Sainz takes first lap of Madrid's Madring circuit ahead of 2026 Spanish GP

Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz has become the first person to drive a full lap of the new Madring circuit in Madrid, completing the run in a 450bhp Ford Mustang GT as the venue prepares for its debut Spanish Grand Prix in September 2026.

The 5.4km, 22-turn layout is still under construction, but the asphalt is already in place at the IFEMA fairgrounds near Barajas airport. An FIA inspection is scheduled for the end of the month.

Why it matters:

Madrid's new street circuit will host the Spanish Grand Prix for a 10-year period from 2026, bringing F1 back to the capital after decades away. The circuit's unique mix of public roads and purpose-built high-speed sections, including a banked blind corner, could produce some of the most exciting racing on the calendar.

The Details:

• First impressions: Sainz said the Madring is faster than it looks, especially the purpose-built section from Turn 9 onwards. He described the high-speed corners as places "where we’ll enjoy a Formula 1 car at its absolute best."
• Overtaking spots: The Turn 1-2 chicane and the tight left-hander at Turn 13 are identified as key passing opportunities. Battery management will be "very strategic" for the chicanes.
• La Monumental: The circuit's crown jewel is a 24% gradient banking at Turn 12 shaped like a bullring. Sainz expects to take it flat out, though he might lift slightly mid-corner for front grip. He noted the corner is also blind, creating a "cocktail" of challenges.
• Comparison to classics: The high-speed Valdebebas esses reminded Sainz of Spa and Silverstone, while the tight 117-degree left-hander at Turn 20, which passes under a motorway, could catch drivers off guard.

What's next:

With the asphalt laid and Sainz's initial run complete, the focus shifts to the FIA inspection at the end of May. Madrid will host the Spanish GP from 2026, while Barcelona retains the race on a rotation basis (2028, 2030, 2032).